Cen Guo is a global grad from China. She is a Ph.D. student in the Pharmaceutical Sciences program in the Eshelman School of Pharmacy.
1. What made you choose UNC/NC when deciding on a program/place to study?
UNC Pharmacy School ranks number one nationwide. The Pharmaceutical Sciences Ph.D. program is the dream program for many students who are seeking an advanced pharmaceutical education. The location of UNC is also great. It is close to other reputable universities, research institutes, and high tech companies. NC is a great place to live, with a nice environment, and the costs are affordable.
2. What is the most different thing you’ve seen or experienced since being here in comparison to your home country?
The diversity here is much greater than in my home country. In America, I interact with people who have different cultures, languages, religious beliefs, life stories. Additionally, there are a wide variety of resources to enhance your learning. This diversity poses both opportunities and challenges, though I think the opportunities outweigh the challenges.
- What is something you wish you had known before moving here?
Students need to be very proactive. Communication is also important, since people coming from different backgrounds may have different assumptions.
- Where is a place in your home country that every tourist should visit and why?
Chengdu and Shanghai are two cities showing different aspects of China. Chengdu is relatively slow-paced and has the beauty of traditional China. The food there is awesome. Shanghai showcases the fast economic and technological development of China. It is very open and friendly to international visitors.